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Chapter 2 Deterministic optimization of distillation processes

  • José A. Caballero
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Optimization in Chemical Engineering
This chapter is in the book Optimization in Chemical Engineering

Abstract

In this chapter, we present an overview of deterministic optimization methods for the design of column sequences for separating zeotropic mixtures. First, we focus on models developed in the last years of the twentieth century that deal with sequences formed by conventional columns and the sharp separation of consecutive key components. The extension to models for the sharp separation of components while allowing sloppy separations (nonconsecutive key components) is untimely related to thermally coupled distillation; therefore then we do a discussion on the structural characteristics that characterize thermally coupled distillation and present deterministic models for optimizing these sequences. Column sequencing is usually based on shortcut models, which are usually good enough, especially if we are interested in sequence comparison. However, in some situations rigorous models are mandatory; therefore we introduce the main models developed for the optimization of distillation columns. Using generalized disjunctive programming as a modeling framework, we show that it is possible to formulate different models with varying levels of complexity (equilibrium or transport-based, or even including reactions) without altering the model structure. This enables, for instance, the use of advanced commercial simulators within hybrid optimization models.

Abstract

In this chapter, we present an overview of deterministic optimization methods for the design of column sequences for separating zeotropic mixtures. First, we focus on models developed in the last years of the twentieth century that deal with sequences formed by conventional columns and the sharp separation of consecutive key components. The extension to models for the sharp separation of components while allowing sloppy separations (nonconsecutive key components) is untimely related to thermally coupled distillation; therefore then we do a discussion on the structural characteristics that characterize thermally coupled distillation and present deterministic models for optimizing these sequences. Column sequencing is usually based on shortcut models, which are usually good enough, especially if we are interested in sequence comparison. However, in some situations rigorous models are mandatory; therefore we introduce the main models developed for the optimization of distillation columns. Using generalized disjunctive programming as a modeling framework, we show that it is possible to formulate different models with varying levels of complexity (equilibrium or transport-based, or even including reactions) without altering the model structure. This enables, for instance, the use of advanced commercial simulators within hybrid optimization models.

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